Stop Animal Abuse

Did you know?

Did you know that Canada’s federal animal cruelty law was originally enacted in 1892? To put this in context, in 1892:

Canada numbered roughly 4.8 million people

Women were not considered “persons” under law and were not eligible to vote in federal elections

Aboriginal religious ceremonies such as potlatches and dances were outlawed under the Indian Act

Chinese immigrants coming to Canada were singled out and forced to pay a fifty dollar fee to enter the country – a substantial amount of money at the time

Decades ago, people were used to seeing ads like these:

So much has changed in Canada since those times, mostly for the good. As a nation, however, we have failed in bringing progressive positive change to improve the welfare of animals.

Did you know that a new bill to change this antiquated legislation, the first substantive change to animal cruelty laws in 122 years, was passed by all parties in the House of Commons twice in 2003, but the Senate stood in its way?

Did you know that the outdated wording of the current law prevents the prosecution of many serious animal abusers?

Did you know that it’s not an offence to train dogs for fighting?

Did you know that Canada’s animal cruelty law pales in comparison with many developed countries in Europe, Australia and New Zealand?

What can you do?

Do your research.

Take action.

Write to the Justice Minister to ask him to make animal cruelty amendments part of the government’s “Tough on Crime” platform. Ask him why his government refuses to recognize the link between animal abuse and violence against humans. Tell him we need better animal cruelty legislation to protect animals as well as people. Please copy your letter to your own Member of Parliament, the opposition party Justice Critics and the Prime Minister.

Report animal abuse.

Humaneness begins in the community with people providing responsible care for their animals. If you see animal abuse in your community, call the authorities. Click here to learn more about how to recognize signs of abuse and to order your 8 ½” X 11” poster. We all need to be vigilant in our communities.

Spread the word.

Tell your friends and family about our archaic and weak federal animal cruelty law and why so many animal abusers are not punished. Urge them to order posters and decals too.

Write a letter

Write to the editor of your newspaper or maybe create a Youtube video about the need to end animal cruelty.